Antonio Plazibat withdraws from GLORY 105, replacement confirmed as rumors spark backlash

GLORY 105 has taken a major hit after Antonio Plazibat withdrew from the heavyweight tournament just days before fight week. Plazibat was viewed as one of the key contenders in the bracket, which made the late change an instant talking point across the kickboxing world.

Boapeah steps in to face Kromah

With Plazibat out, Michael Boapeah has been confirmed as the replacement and will now face Mory Kromah, the opponent originally booked to fight Plazibat. Boapeah was considered a strong reserve option, but his entry reshapes the tournament and changes the possible paths through the bracket.

Online speculation and fan backlash

The timing of the withdrawal fueled immediate speculation online. While the situation was described as injury-related, rumors quickly spread suggesting financial dissatisfaction may have played a role. Some discussion centered on claims that fighter fees for this edition were lower than before, which triggered strong reactions from fans - ranging from frustration about last-minute changes to criticism directed at the promotion.

Plazibat responds: injury, not money

Plazibat later addressed the rumors directly and called the money talk total nonsense. In his explanation, he pointed to inflammation in the tendons around his elbow and said the joint capsule was not in good condition. He stressed it is not a chronic issue, but serious enough that he cannot train or fight safely.

Plazibat added that pushing through training or competing in a tournament setting could lead to torn tendons and a much longer absence. He said the decision was based on medical advice and that he was told to stop training to avoid major damage.

What it means for GLORY 105

For GLORY, losing Plazibat is a significant storyline shift, but the Boapeah vs Kromah matchup adds a fresh edge to the tournament. The spotlight now turns to whether the new pairing can deliver the same momentum, and whether the promotion can calm the noise around the circumstances of the withdrawal as fight night approaches.